What Led to the Tragic Air India Crash in Ahmedabad? Investigation Underway

Investigation into the Air India Crash

New Delhi: The government has informed Parliament that an investigation is currently underway to determine all potential causes of the tragic Air India accident that occurred on June 12, 2005, in Ahmedabad, resulting in the loss of over 241 lives on board and additional casualties on the ground.

The ill-fated Air India flight AI171 crashed mere seconds after takeoff, colliding with a medical college hostel, leading to the deaths of all passengers and crew members aboard, along with others nearby.

Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, stated in the Lok Sabha that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting the inquiry in accordance with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2025. The investigation is ongoing.

A preliminary report has been released by the AAIB and is accessible on their official website, containing factual details based on the evidence collected at that time.

The minister emphasized that all possible causes of the accident are under scrutiny, and the final report will be made public once the investigation concludes.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has established a comprehensive safety oversight system to ensure adherence to regulations and civil aviation requirements for all aircraft and airport operators.

According to the AAIB's preliminary findings, both engines lost power after the fuel cut-off switches were inadvertently moved from the ‘RUN’ to the ‘CUTOFF’ position. However, the cockpit voice recorder indicated that one pilot claimed he did not deactivate the fuel control switches. The switches were returned to the RUN position just moments before the crash.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has advised against jumping to conclusions until the final report is published.